The Senate has officially confirmed the defection of Senator Benson Konbowei, representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His defection, announced during Thursday’s plenary session, came barely 24 hours after Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri formally resigned from the PDP.
As Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Senator Konbowei’s defection letter, his Bayelsa colleague, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West)—who had earlier insisted on remaining with the PDP—stood up and walked out of the chamber in visible displeasure, a move that sparked laughter among some senators.
With Senator Konbowei’s switch, the APC now commands a majority of 74 senators in the upper chamber, consolidating its dominance in the 10th National Assembly.
Meanwhile, in Bayelsa, Governor Douye Diri announced his resignation from the PDP on Wednesdayat the Executive Council Chamber of the Government House, Yenagoa.
Although Diri did not disclose his next political destination, he cited “an obvious reason” for his departure.
“After extensive consultations, today, October 15, 2025, I wish to notify you that, in keeping with the extant protocols, I, Governor Douye Diri, do hereby resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party,” he declared.
The Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, was absent from the meeting, which the governor explained was due to official assignments.
Diri further revealed that all local government chairmen in the state would move with him, alongside 23 members of the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Abraham Ngobere. The session was attended by 10 lawmakers.
What You Should Know
The defections mark a major political realignment in Bayelsa State and at the national level.
With Senator Konbowei’s move, the APC strengthens its legislative majority, while Governor Diri’s resignation signals a possible broader shift in Bayelsa’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
